From a pretty early age I wanted to be a physical therapist. Two experiences with PTs determined my future career.
At 13 I qualified for the Junior Nationals in Alaska in alpine ski racing. When I underwent my first sports physical I learned that I had rather severe scoliosis. I worried this would mean I'd have to wear a brace, have my back fused, or both, which would end my ski racing career. Instead, I went to a PT, who taught me exercises specific to my condition that I completed religiously throughout my teens.